Exploring the 7 Ausangate Lagoons from Cusco offers a charming blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and accessible adventure—especially for those who want to experience high-altitude landscapes without the demanding trek. Priced at just $33 per person, this day-long tour provides a comfortable way to see some of Peru’s most colorful lagoons, enjoy a hearty local breakfast and lunch, and relax in thermal baths. With a professional bilingual guide and smooth transport, it’s a practical choice for travelers looking for a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and comfort.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its focus on authentic landscapes and the delicious meals included. The lagoons’ changing shades of blue and green are striking, and the chance to relax in therapeutic thermal waters adds a soothing touch to the day. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the altitude, which can be challenging if you’re not acclimatized. Still, this tour is ideal if you want an accessible way to explore high-altitude lakes with minimal physical stress, especially suitable for travelers who prefer guided excursions with good value.

If you’re someone who loves stunning vistas, local interactions, and a well-organized day out, this experience should definitely be on your list. It’s especially fitting if you’re short on time but want to see a variety of landscapes and enjoy some authentic Peruvian flavors along the way.

Key Points

Stunning visuals of seven turquoise lagoons at the foot of Ausangate mountain.
Comfortable access with included transportation and a professional bilingual guide.
Delicious meals provide relaxing breaks and authentic flavors.
Thermal baths offer an opportunity to unwind in thermal waters, with optional entry.
Accessible adventure suitable for those not seeking intense trekking.
Affordable value at $33 per person, covering transport, guides, and meals.

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A Detailed Look at the 7 Lagoons Tour

The Cusco 7 Lagoons Tour is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of Peru without the strenuous effort of a multi-day trek. For just $33, you gain access to a day filled with vibrant scenery, cultural insights, and some well-earned relaxation. The tour encompasses visits to seven distinct lagoons—each with its own character and hue—plus a visit to the Paqchanta thermal baths, giving a well-rounded taste of the area’s natural attractions.

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Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The day begins early with a hotel pickup, a crucial feature ensuring smooth logistics. Your guide—fluent in both English and Spanish—will accompany you, sharing insights and making the experience more meaningful. The transport is comfortable, likely a mini-bus or similar, taking you southeast of Cusco towards the Ausangate mountain region.

The Lagoons: Pata Cocha, Otorongo Male & Female, Puca Cocha, Ccomer Cocha, Azul Cocha, and Alqa Cocha

Once at the lagoons, you’ll witness spectacle after spectacle—each lagoon displays a different shade of blue or green, thanks to mineral content and altitude. The names themselves evoke the local language and landscape: Pata Cocha, for example, often translates to “Big Pond,” and Azul Cocha means “Blue Lake.” These vivid hues are a photographer’s dream, and we loved the way each lagoon offers a unique perspective of the surrounding peaks and flora.

The tour guides typically allow time for photos and short walks along the lagoons’ edges, letting you soak in the views at your own pace. The high-altitude environment—around 4,300 meters (about 14,100 feet)—means you’ll want to take it slow and stay hydrated.

Visiting the Thermal Baths

Incorporating a visit to Paqchanta’s thermal baths is a highlight. You can opt to soak in the thermo-medicinal waters—a relaxing experience after the morning’s sightseeing. Entry isn’t included in the main tour cost, costing around 10 soles (~$3). Many reviews mention the bath’s soothing effects, especially after a chilly day of outdoor exploration, though some note the water’s common mineral scent.

Food and Rest Stops

The included buffet breakfast and lunch are pleasant surprises, especially considering the modest price. Expect hearty, local-style dishes that serve as a perfect fuel for the day. We loved that the meals aren’t just basic but thoughtfully prepared, offering a taste of regional flavors and ingredients.

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Practical Considerations and Tips

Altitude sickness can be a concern; travelers should consider acclimatizing in Cusco before embarking on this trip.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring rain gear, as weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Pack swimwear and a towel if you plan to visit the thermal baths.
Children or travelers with mobility issues might find the high-altitude environment a bit challenging, and babies are not allowed due to logistical constraints.

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Authentic Experience vs. Commercial Tour

While this is a guided tour, it’s designed for those seeking an authentic natural experience without the physical demands of multi-day trekking. The presence of a local guide enhances the experience, providing cultural insights and safety. Some reviews highlight the guide Rosa’s “muy ambake” (very friendly) approach, making the day even more enjoyable.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

The value of this tour hinges on the combination of spectacular scenery, comfortable logistics, and authentic local flavors. For just a little over thirty dollars, you get a full day of sightseeing, transportation, guided commentary, and meals—making it an economical yet enriching way to experience the high Andes.

The visit to seven lagoons provides a rare chance to see these vivid bodies of water in one go, and the thermal baths offer a relaxing end to the day. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of high-altitude landscapes without the physical toll of trekking, or those with limited time who still want a meaningful outdoor experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone eager to see the colorful lagoons with minimal effort. It’s particularly ideal if you’re concerned about altitude but still want to enjoy the scenery—since the tour provides transportation and guide support. It’s also great for travelers who value delicious, filling meals and a relaxed pace.

Those with a sense of adventure but limited stamina will appreciate how this tour balances stunning vistas with comfort and safety. Keep in mind, if you’re prone to altitude sickness or have mobility issues, you may want to prepare accordingly or consider other options.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one day, with check-in and pickup times varying based on your hotel location.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup, transportation, a bilingual guide, first aid kit, buffet breakfast, and lunch.

What is not included?
Entry to the lagoons, thermal baths, and Ausangate mountain costs extra. Also, dinner and horses are not included.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Yes, bring comfortable shoes, rain gear, swimwear, a towel, and comfortable clothes suitable for high-altitude weather.

Is there an age limit?
The tour is not suitable for travelers over 70 or those with altitude sickness. Babies are not allowed.

Can I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

How do I pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility to your travel plans.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot early, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized day trip that combines spectacular scenery, local culture, and nice touches like meals and thermal baths, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who want to see the vivid lagoons of Ausangate without the physical challenge of a multi-day trek.

Travelers who enjoy photography will find plenty of opportunities to capture the changing hues of the lakes. Food lovers will appreciate the included meals, which showcase regional flavors. And those seeking a relaxing way to experience high-altitude landscapes will find the thermal baths a perfect complement.

However, it’s important to remember that this tour involves high-altitude travel. If you’re prone to altitude sickness or prefer to explore independently, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider other options. Still, for most travelers, the combination of nature, comfort, and cultural richness makes this a worthwhile addition to your Cusco itinerary.

In summary, the Cusco 7 Lagoons Tour offers a compelling, budget-friendly way to enjoy some of Peru’s most colorful and peaceful landscapes. With friendly guides, good food, and a relaxed pace, it’s an experience that balances natural beauty with genuine comfort—an excellent choice for those eager to see the high Andes without the physical toll.